REVIEW: Sleeping Beauty
**** [4 stars]
Wiltshire Creative’s Sleeping Beauty is everything you could want from a pantomime and more. Bursting with festive magic, dazzling performances, and side-splitting humour, this 2024 offering is a true triumph that will leave audiences young and old utterly enchanted.
From the moment the curtain rises, the stage is transformed into a visual feast thanks to the Salisbury Playhouse’s in-house production team. Their craftsmanship is nothing short of extraordinary, with stunning sets and intricate details that transport you straight into the magical world of Princess Stella and Salisbury-shire. The costumes, too, are a wonder to behold, shimmering with colour and creativity—each design a testament to the hard work of a talented creative team.
Ensemble and Natasha O'Brien - 📸 Pamela Raith
At the heart of this classic tale and stellar cast is the wickedly entertaining Fairy Badflix, played to perfection by Natasha O’Brien. O’Brien’s commanding stage presence and soaring vocals make her a showstopper every time she takes the stage. Joseph Peacock shines as Mike the Magnificent, exuding buckets of warmth and charm with his West Country twang and boundless energy. Combined with a live band delivering toe-tapping renditions of well-loved songs, this panto has all the ingredients of a festive hit.
The humour is spot-on, blending classic panto silliness with innuendo and clever local references. Whether you’re giggling at the cheeky one-liners or chuckling at the political commentary (!), there’s a joke for everyone in the audience. And while the pantomime delivers all the beloved traditions—audience participation, groan-worthy puns, and a dame who steals the show—it also manages to throw in a few surprises that keep the experience fresh and exciting.
Scotty Armstrong, Lottie Mae O'Kill and Joseph Peacock - 📸 Pamela Raith
If you’re looking for a festive treat, look no further. Wiltshire Creative’s Sleeping Beauty is a truly magical experience that shouldn’t be missed. It’s a tale as old as time, reimagined with flair, laughter, and a sparkle of Salisbury magic.
This is more than just a panto—it’s a celebration of local talent and creativity, and every ticket sold supports Wiltshire Creative, a cherished charity at the heart of our community. Don’t miss out on this spellbinding adventure!
Book your tickets now and be part of the magic. With tickets from just £18, Sleeping Beauty is running until Sunday 12 Jan 2025!